Hoy Low Lighthouse

The Hoy Low Lighthouse is a prominent maritime aid located on the west coast of Scotland.

History

• The lighthouse has a rich history dating back to the late 19th century, when it was constructed to serve as a navigational aid for ships traversing the treacherous waters of the North Sea.
• The Hoy Low Lighthouse is a tall, imposing structure that stands at a height of 17 metres (56 feet) above sea level.
• The tower itself is made of cast iron, with a distinctive cylindrical shape and a characteristic lantern room at its summit.

Light Characteristics

The Hoy Low Lighthouse emits a powerful beam of light that can be seen for up to 15 nautical miles (28 km) out to sea.

• The light is white in colour and has a period of 3 seconds between flashes, making it an important aid for mariners navigating the area.
• The lighthouse's characteristic "Iso" pattern indicates that it uses a rotating beam to sweep across the horizon.

Current Status

The Hoy Low Lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation, although its operation is now automated.

This means that the lighthouse is no longer manned by a keeper, but rather relies on computerized systems to control its light and other functions.

Location and Accessibility

The Hoy Low Lighthouse is situated on West Hill Road, near the village of John o' Groats in Caithness, Scotland.

• The lighthouse is easily accessible by car or bus, with parking facilities available nearby.
• Visitors can also walk to the lighthouse from the nearby village, although this may require some effort due to the rugged terrain.

Heritage Status

The Hoy Low Lighthouse has been designated as a Scheduled Ancient Monument in recognition of its historical and architectural significance.

• This designation provides protection for the lighthouse and ensures that it is preserved for future generations.

Notable Historical Events

The Hoy Low Lighthouse played an important role during World War II, when it was used as a navigational aid for Allied convoys sailing through the North Sea.

• The lighthouse's light was also used to guide ships into the nearby harbor at John o' Groats, where they could be refitted and repaired before continuing their journey.

Visiting Information

The Hoy Low Lighthouse is open to visitors throughout the year, although its hours of operation may vary depending on the time of day.

• Visitors can view the lighthouse from a safe distance, but access to the tower itself is not permitted due to safety concerns.